Nagoshi no Harae is a traditional Shinto purification ritual held each year around June 30 at shrines throughout Japan. The ceremony marks the midpoint of the year and is performed to cleanse the impurities that are believed to have accumulated during the first six months, while praying for good health and well-being for the remainder of the year.
In Kyoto, the ritual has long been observed at shrines including Heian Jingu, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kitano Tenmangu, and Kamigamo Shrine. A large ring made from cogon grass, known as a chinowa, is placed at the shrine entrance. Visitors pass through the ring three times in a figure-eight pattern while reciting a traditional prayer. This ritual, known as chinowa kuguri, is performed to pray for protection from misfortune and good health.
If you’re staying with us at THE MACHIYA EBISUYA Hotel, you can experience Nagoshi no Harae at several nearby temples! We recommend Kyoto Ebisu Shrine, approximately 4–5 minutes on foot, or Yasaka Shrine, which is around 12–15 minutes on foot from the hotel.
The video below shows the Nagoshi no Harae ritual held at Kamigamo Shrine in Kyoto city!